PTI Convoy Surrounded by Army at Islamabad's D-Chowk Amid "Shoot at Sight" Orders

Tensions run high in the Pakistan capital as a convoy led by Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi reaches the D-Chowk area, sparking intense clashes with security forces. The Pakistan Army has been deployed with 'shoot at sight' orders, underscoring a grave escalation in the standoff between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government.

The Ministry of Interior has invoked Article 245 of the Constitution to deploy the Pakistan Army, citing "miscreants" in the area. This move comes as PTI workers clashed with police, with protesters making their way to Zero Point, prompting the government to deploy additional police personnel, 1,000 officers from Rawalpindi, and Rangers at key government buildings and D-Chowk. The aftermath of tear gas shelling has caused businesses to shut down, with its effects reaching as far as Aabpara Chowk.

Amidst the chaos, four Rangers personnel and two policemen lost their lives after a vehicle was intentionally driven into them during the protest. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned PTI of stricter measures, including the invocation of Article 245 and a curfew, if they attempt to proceed with their demands.

The PTI has pledged to continue their march, led by K-P CM Gandapur, until their demands, including the release of all political prisoners, reversal of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, restoration of democracy, and a return to the allegedly "stolen mandate" are met. Pakistan's capital has been brought to a standstill as Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi roused PTI workers, urging them to press forward and secure Imran Khan's release.

With the Red Zone breached and government buildings located within it, security forces responded with live fire and tear gas, leading to over 4,000 arrests. The situation has led to a tense standoff between PTI protesters and the government, both sides trading blame for the violence.

As the situation in Islamabad continues to deteriorate, PM Shehbaz Sharif has charged the police and Rangers with identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the violence and directed his government to provide best medical facilities to the injured personnel. The deadlocked negotiations between the government and PTI threaten to exacerbate the ongoing crisis, calling for a peaceful resolution amidst serious accusations of violence and suppression.